Co-Optation Pronunciation: /ˌkoʊ.ɒpˈteɪ.ʃən/ (koh-op-TAY-shun) Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The process by which the original meaning, goals, or methods of a group, movement, or idea are taken over, assimilated, or redirected by outside interests—often those in power—to neutralize its impact or use it for their own purposes. Co-optation can dilute, alter, or undermine the group’s original intentions.
Example: When a corporation adopts the language and imagery of a social movement only to boost its image, activists often criticize this as co-optation.